Can subsidized On the Job Training stretch payroll dollars?

Yes, with some extra effort – Effort that can be worth it! Let’s look at the facts:

On the Job Training (OJT) is a government wage and training subsidy paid directly to employers through a contract. OJT helps defray costs of upgrading new employee skills with training you specify. It can shorten the time it takes to get a new employee up to speed. If you are looking to expand and train for job specific or specialized skills, you may receive up to 50% of an employee’s wage rate. Additional perks can include tax credits for new hires.

Benefits:

You make the hiring decision.

May include tax credits for new hires.

You determine job performance standards.

You retain the right to terminate a trainee.

Paperwork is handled by an OJT Representative working with you, your HR or payroll staff.

Reimbursement happens during the training period.

Responsibilities:

You hire OJT trainees as regular, full-time employees.

A trainee’s rate of pay is commensurate with what you pay others for similar work.

OJT trainees do not replace employees laid off with six months prior to your application.

A conversation with Sherman Landry, Program Coordinator at the Employment and Training Division-Employer Services will answer your questions, help you make a decision, and get you to next steps.